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asherbakugou · 15 days

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Son of Arrax

King of the Gods, God of Justice, Law, Order, and Governance.

Queen Alicent Hightower stood at the balconey of her apartments – the lavishly furnished Queens Apartments – eyes unfocused as she looked down towards Aemma's Garden, only recently finished by the wrokers sent by Lord Tyrell as a gift to the pregnant Crown Princess. From where she stood she could smell all the different flowers that lined the beautiful garden and surrounded a pavillion carved from the same white stone the Eyrie was made of.

She waited impatiently for news of Princess Rhaenyra's labors, praying to the Seven that she would have a girl, furthering Prince Aegons claim. The skin around her nails was torn to shreds with drops of blood falling to the stone beneath her feet, but she hardly noticed.

Surely King Viserys Targaryen, her husband and Princess Rhaenyra's father, would finally see the craven whore his daughter was after she birthed the bastard of Ser Harwin Strong. He had allowed her to run rampant, giving in to every whim and wish she had. Why just recently he had given her the Heir's apartments! Only slightly smaller than the Kings own apartments and far larger than her own, which was just disrespectful to her, the Queen! Princess Rhaenyra and her heathen husband now had an entire floor within Maegor's Holdfast to themselves and their 'household', while she only had a single corridor filled with rooms!

Aegon deserved to have the Heirs Apartments as the Kings Firstborn, not the Royal Whore of the Red Keep and her Sword-Swallowing husband!

But no matter how many people she told the truth, those who adored Rhaenyra gave her everything. Her Uncle, Prince Daemon the Whoremonger himself sent ships of men, servants, healers, and midwives, an entire household of those he had personally vetted as the letter that had accompanied them had boasted. Alongside those ships were those filled with jewels, cloth of all kinds from Essos, Pentos, and the Free Cities, toys for the babe, furniture of all kinds for Princess Rhaenyra's new Apartments all sent by Lady Laena, Prince Daemons wife.

Lord Corlys was much the same, sending for the most exotic fruits, vegetables, seafood, and meat his money could buy. King Viserys had not only gifted her the Heir's Apartments but everything the Late Queen Aemma had owned from dresses to jewels, leaving her, the true Queen who had done her duty, to buy new ones after all of hers had been taken. It was humiliating to have to buy an entire chest of jewelry!

Lady Jeyne Arryn had also sent gifts, including the stone for the pavilion, such as old items that belonged to Princess Daella Targaryen and Queen Aemma Arryn. She even sent objects that had once belonged to her grandfather, Rodrick Arryn, much to the shock of everyone.

The entirety of the North had sent her gifts as well, from furs to men, simply out of loyalty and of course the Tyrells had built the princess a garden that was then named after her mother, planting four Weirwood trees in the corners of the garden much to her displeasure.

Fortunately Princess Rhaenys seemed to realize that the child was a bastard and the Baratheons had followed her lead in not interacting with the couple outside of what was deemed respectable. She was oft seen conversing with her son, conversations that ended with him storming away in fury, after the Princess likely tried to convince him of his wifes sins. But the poor man was besotted. No man had ever doted over their wife the way Prince Laenor did.

A quiet knock pulled the Queen from her musings. The door opened allowing Ser Criston Cole, her loyal guard to poke his head inside, "It is Tayla. She says she was sent with word of the Princess' labors."

"Let her in, Ser Criston. I wish to hear the happy news," Queen Alicent stated, tucking her hands behind her back.

"Of course, Your Majesty."

Tayla hurried inside waiting for the door to close before speaking. "The Crown Princess has given birth to a boy, Your Grace."

Queen Alicent scowled for only a moment before smoothing her features back out. "Do you know how the Princess fares? Does she suffer the same as her mother, the late Queen, did? And the boy, tell me of his looks? Who does he resemble more, his mother, his father, a relative perhaps?"

"The Crown Princess is well, already up and moving from what I saw, Your Majesty. She refused the wetnurse the King offered, told everyone within that she would not let her son be fed by a stranger when she was right there with milk to spare," Tayla smiled at the memory of the Crown Princess. "And Crown Prince Jacaerys Targaryen is beautiful, My Queen. A perfect mix of his mother and father."

The smile fell from Queen Alicents lips, "What? What do you mean?!"

"The babe had the hair color of his mother but its curlier, I believe. And his eyes are from her too, but his skin color is more like his fathers. I was not close enough to see his facial features but I could hear Lord Velaryon and the King celebrating him."

Queen Alicent stared at the servent silently before commanding, "Take me to them. Now. I wish to meet the newest member of the Velaryon family." She made sure to emphasize the name Velaryon, believing the maid had mispoken but she did not correct her self.

"Of course, your Majesty. The Crown Princess has been taken back to her Apartments in order to rest." Tayla turned to lead the Queen to the Heir's Apartments as Ser Criston Cole fell into step behind her, white armor gleaming as his cloak fluttered dramatically.

The walk was considerably shorter than Queen Alicent expected but that did not make it anymore pleasant. The walls of the entire third floor of the Holdfast had Valyrian Tapestries depicting family members and their respective dragons, starting with Daenys the Dreamer. There were even Velaryon tapestries hung up, pictures of sea creatures of myths and legends that made Queen Alicent shudder.

The halls were lit with dragonglass latterns that threw beautiful patterns along the walls. The group of three passed by several members of Princess Rhaenyra's Household, including Lady Sara Snow, Lady Annara Celtigar, and Lady Mara Karstark.

The large black wood door at the end of the hallway had Syrax, the Princess' dragon carved into the wood and filled with gold, the large green emerald eye acting as the handle. Standing outside was Ser Harrold Westerling and Ser Arryk Cargyll, the Kings guard for the day, Ser Harwin Strong and Ser Erryk Cargyll, the Princess' Guard, as well as six other guards, Velaryon and Arryn based upon their armor were posted in the hallway.

Ser Strong opened the door, calling into the room, "Queen Consort Alicent of House Hightower." He stepped out of the way, eyeing Ser Cole, who was smirking haughtily.

They knew his secret.

Sweeping inside, Queen Alicent found Princess Rhaenyra resting upon a beautiful, cushioned chaise, her youngest lady, Lady Sera Dondarrion, working oils through her long, golden-white hair.

"Ahh, my dear Queen!" King Viserys called, sat upon an armchair with his grandson cradled within his arms. "You will be most delighted to see what the Gods have gifted my dear grandson!"

Her smile nearly fell, but she quickly plastered it back in place, "A gift from the Seven-Who-Are-One? I would be delighted, husband."

"Come, come," King Viserys said, using his head to gesture her over. Coming to stand at his side, purposefully displacing Lord Corlys, who ignored her to focus on his grandson, she looked down, fully expecting a carbon copy of Ser Harwin Strong, no matter the reports of Tayla.

Instead soft, thick, curly golden-white hair formed a halo upon his head, the sunlight that streamed through the window giving it a soft glow. Purple eyes, the same as Rhaenyra's down to the color and placement of the darker black specks, stared back at her though she noticed a strange sheen to them, seemingly giving them a golden tint when the sunlight them. Dark skin, though a few shades lighter than Prince Laenors or Lord Corlys', though it was likely that it would darken if he became a sailor like his grandfather and father.

"Look," Viserys murmured, lightly brushing back the curls piled onto his tiny forehead. In white lines upon his forehead, etched into his skin, was a crown with a strange rune in the very center.

"It means 'King'," Lord Corlys stated, smiling widely. "Its an Old Language, shared by the First Men, Valyrians, and Ghiscari. The last time I saw anything like it was while I was visiting Old Ghis."

Laenor rolled his eyes as the two dads shared a laugh, while the babe cooed, turning his attention to his father.

"Does he have a name?" Alicent asked, voice tense. A glance to Rhaenyra told her that she could hear the tone change and was amused by it.

"Prince Jacaerys Targaryen, First of His Name, and Heir to me, the Heir to the Irone Throne and Heiress to House Targaryen. Tonight we plan to announce him to all the Great Houses," Princess Rhaenyra stated, smile softening as she looked to her babe.

"I congratulate you, Princess. Your Mother must be looking down upon you in happiness for your success, from the Strangers Embrace," Queen Alicent said, trying to hide a sharp smirk as Rhaenyra's gaze flashed.

"Lady Helaena, your dearest Mother, one of my own dear mothers companion must be looking upon me favorably as well. It is a shame she left so young, but she lives on in the paintings you or your father must have. At least I can look upon the mirror and see my mother at times, but you, my lady, are the perfect imitation of your father," Rhaenyra grinned, teeth sharp and poised at the throat. Alicent nearly gaped at Rhaenyra, shocked by the low blow. The Princess knew she had no paintings of her mother because they were too expensive for a second son to afford.

"Thank you," Queen Alicent barely hid a snarl with a false smile. "My husband, I fear I must return to mine own chambers to ready myself for the feast tonight."

She pressed a kiss to his cheek to hide the hatred and anger she yearned to let them see.

"Of course, my dear. I shall see you tonight then." The king was far more focused on the babe than he was his wife, not even registering the kiss on his cheek.

Queen Alicent stalked outside, Ser Cristin quickly falling into step with one last look towards Ser Harwin.

How could Rhaenyra have said something so cruel! Her father was right. This was no longer her friend but her enemy. Aegon would take his rightful place upon the Throne. Viserys would eventually have to see the truth, that his daughter was unfut to rule, that women were unfit to be in places of such power.

From now on she had to begin finding allies for herself, especially now that her father was no longer the Kings trusted Hand and advisor. Her first act would have to be discrediting the rumors that were sure to appear once people saw the birthmark upon Prince Jacaerys' forehead.

Nearly flinging her door open she ordered the servent within to find her best green dress. The maid bowed and scurried into the adjacent chamber to find one while other servents were called to bath her.

For two hours she allowed herself to be pampered, both in the bath and outside it, before allowing the servents to carefully lace up the beautiful generald green dress with tight sleeves, a high neckline, and beautiful green detailing around the bust and waist, emphasizing her small figure. After Aemond she had easily dropped the added pregnancy weught, something she doubted Rhaenyra would be able to do.

Queen Aemma had always looked swelled, or unhealthy and it wouldn't surprise her if Rhaenyra was the same.

Crown Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen smiled as Cylia and Morgana Strong carefully aided her towards her bathing chamber, where a steaming bath awaited. Maester Mellos, who the King had allowed in after Queen Alicents departure, had tried to insist that a hot bath was unhealthy but the healer had disregarded that. Apparently the woman had helped Saera Targaryen give birth several times and the older woman always felt better after a steaming bath. It was a Targaryen thing, she said.

Rhaenyra could see the different herbs one of the other healers had added and could not help but ask, "What kind of herbs are in here?" She sank into the water with a near moan, muscles relaxing.

"Yarrow to reduce swelling, lemon balm to keep fevers and sickness at bay, and witch hazel to help the healing process," Healer Ana answered, carrying over a cup of tea. "Your grace, I suggest drinking nettle tea for the next three days in order to quicken the healing process. It shall also aid in milk production to make your son grow quicker and healthier."

Nodding, Rhaenyra took the tea, relieved at the warmth that slid down her throat. Luckily it had been sweetened by honey and the slightest bit of milk so she could ignore the bitter tasting liquid easier. "Thank you."

"Of course."

She was happy to note that Healer Ana had remembered her decision to breastfeed Jacaerys herself, rather than passing him off to a wet nurse as most did. Her and Laenor had agreed that they could not trust anyone, so it would be safer, and seemingly healthier according to the midwives, for him to feed from her.

For a good hour she soaked, drinking several cups of tea during the time, as Morgana and Cylia painted her nails a beautiful dark red, a very expensive shade her goodsister had sent her. Once the water had cooled, she was dried and dressed in a plain towel so Sera could braid her hair in a simple crown.

The dress she chose was black with red and gold trim, long draping sleeves filled with soft fur, made in the Northern style. It had been a gift from Lord Rickon Stark and his young son, Cregan Stark, and one she quite adored. Pulling it on, she admired the softness as she swept out of her dressing room, finding all three men still cooing over little Jacaerys.

"Father, Goodfather, I believe you the feast will be beginning in an hour," Rhaenyra said, smiling at the slight panic both men obviously felt.

"Ahh, you're right, my dear," Viserys pressed a kiss against her cheek as his eldest gently took Jacaerys. "I shall see you tonight for the feast."

"As will I. You did well, my son," Lord Corlys stated, clapping Laenor on the shoulder. He gave his father a strained smile, escorting the two from her Apartments, before nearly slumping against the door.

"I can not believe him sometimes. Did you see his face when we introduced Jacaerys?!"

"Did you see the Queens? She looked as if she sucked a lemon when she saw our little boy."

Laenor laughed, vividly remembering the shocked look upon her face, as well as the look on her face when she saw his marking.

"I must admit, I was surprised by the marking as well. I know Arrax told us he would lay claim upon his . . . our? . . . son, but I did not realize it would be so visible," Laenor admitted, lightly brushing his fingers over Jacaerys' forehead, smiling at the quiet coo.

"It is a boon either way. The servents, healers, and midwives that were present during the birth will gossip, and after tonight, when all the Lords and Ladies we invited see it they will know that Jacaerys is my rightful heir. The Greens will see that he is no bastard, that he is more Valyrian than the Queens half-breed children."

Laenor grinned, pressing a kiss against her cheek. "I love when you get all viscious. Unfortunate that I must depart from my beautiful lady wife and handsome little boy to dress myself for tonight's feast." He pressed another kiss to her lips to further seal the act, having noticed Sera emerge from her dressing room, before taking his leave.

The Great Hall was beautifully decorated with tables made of oak holding dragonglass vases filled with flowers, red, black, sea-green, and silver silks across the tables. Every seat was filled, with every Great House having arrived within the last two weeks and several smaller Houses having been invited as well.

House Hightower, House Redwyne, House Lannister, and House Bracken all wore green, whether it was a dress, jewelry, or a doublet. Everyone else within the hall wore black alongside their House colors, filling the hall with an array of colors.

House Targaryen and House Velaryon sat at the largest long table situated at the front of the hall, with nearly all of them in attendance. Princess Rhaenys, who had yet to be introduced to her grandson, had a pinched look upon her face, much to Ser Otto Hightowers delight.

It was very obvious to everyone that she thought, knew, that Prince Laenor and Crown Princess Rhaenyra's newbirn son was a bastard, likely begotten by Ser Harwin Strong.

The doors swung open, "Announcing Crown Princess Rhaenyra of House Targaryen, Heir to the Iron Throne, Heiress to the House of Targaryen, Future Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, and her husband, Prince Laenor Velaryon, Heir to Driftmark, High Tide, and to the House of Velaryon, Future King Consort to Crown Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen."

The announcer did not give the name of the babe swaddled in Prince Laenors arms, giving the Royal Family that opportunity to officially announce him and his titles.

"My dearest daughter," King Viserys called, standing from his seat at the head of the table. "Lords and Ladies of the Realm, I must say today is a glorious day for the combined Targaryen-Velaryon. My heir has had her own heir and secured her lineage."

"Thank you, father. Thank you, Lords and Ladies, for traveling so far to be here with us on this joyous occasion. While I am before you tonight I wish to address the rumors about the birth of my son," Crown Princess Rhaenyra stated, holding herself with grace. Prince Laenor eyed the Hightowers who were all sharing small sneers with each other.

"Yesterday afternoon my wife began her labors within the Throne Room, before giving birth to my son early this morning in the shadow of the Iron Throne," Prince Laenor announced, fighting back a smirk when the sneers dropped and everyone one began whispering.

"Now, I would like to introduce our son. Crown Prince Jacaerys Targaryen, Heir to the Heiress of House Targaryen, and Heir to the Heir of the Iron Throne, Future King of the Seven Kingdoms!"

The Blacks cheered for their future Queen and King as Crown Princess Rhaenyra tilted her son towards the crowd, showing them his curly golden-whitr hair and dark skin.

"Now please, feast! Celebrate!" Laenor shouted, earning even louder cheers as the two rounded the table to sit down.

"Laenor," Rhaenys murmured, purple eyes boring into her gooddaughters head. "Princess Rhaenyra."

"Mother," Laenor greeted coldly, not even deigning to look at his mother. She glared at her son, making to speak before Corlys cut her off.

"Rhaenys," Corlys began, keeping his voice low. "Just hold the boy for a moment."

"I refuse."

Laenors muscles locked in place, grey-purple ryes flashing with fire. Rhaenyra knew that if they had been closer to the Dragon Pit they'd be able to hear Seasmokes roars of fury.

"Then I believe its high time you return to Driftmark, Princess Rhaenys," Laenor snarled, viciously stabbing a clam upon his plate. "I will not have my son mocked, I will not let you give the Greens fuel to attack my wife and son. So if you are going to act like a petty child than I do not desire to have your company during this celebration, nor does my wife or son."

Rhaenys and Corlys both gaped at their son as Rhaenyra smiled, placing a hand on the crook of his arm and pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. "I thank you, husband mine."

"Laenor . . ." Rhaenys hesitated when she saw the look in her sons eyes. "Fine. Let me see the babe."

Rhaenyra was reluctant to pass over her son to the woman who had been the source of several of their problems recently but she did. Jacaerys settled in his grandmothers arms, only opening his arms once he was comfortable.

Staring down at the babe that looked so similar to Laenor as a babe, Rhaenys could not help the wave of guilt that flowed through her. "Laenor, Rhaenyra, I–"

The deep gutteral bellow of a dragon made the castle shake, scaring the guests within the hall. Wives reached for husbands as men reached for blades, looking around wildly.

"That . . . Is that not Vermithor?" Corlys questioned, standing from his seat. King Viserys sought to calm the people but another riar from the Bronze Fury only stirred them up more.

Jacaerys cooed, purple eyes gleaning as he was taken back into his mothers arms. Looking down Rhaenyra found the same love she felt for Syrax, the same she saw reflected in Laenors eyes whenever he saw or spoke of Seasmoke, and she knew.

"SILENCE!" Laenor commanded, having recognized what was happening as well. "Vermithor is not here to attack, but to claim his rider."

Crown Princess Rhaenyra swept from the Great Hall, heading towards the courtyard that Vermithor would have to land in if he wished to fit.

The Bronze Fury was stunning with scales of beaten bronze and copper, red-bronze spikes around his narrow face and along his spine seemed to shine in the light of the setting sun.

Hundreds of people, nobility and smallfolk alike, were witness to Vermithor meeting Crown Prince Jacaerys Targaryen before allowing Prince Laenor and his rider upon his back for a flight around King's Landing. There was no possible way for Otto to manipulate the circumstances to better serve him. Everyone would know what had happened that day.

Crown Prince Jacaerys of House Targaryen, First of His Name, Heir to the Heir of the Iron Throne, Heir to the Heiress of House Targaryen, the Born King, the Divine Ruler, He Who Was Born in the Shadow of the Iron Throne, the Lawful, the Bringer of Justice, the Judge, the Rider of Vermithor, the Bronze Fury, the King's Mount, had been born.

#house of the dragon #demigods of valyria #demigods #myths #rhaenyra targaryen #jacaerys velaryon #laenor velaryon #vermithor #laena velaryon #daemon targeryan #king viserys #queen alicent #otto hightower #iron throne #red keep #kings landing #ser harwin strong #ser criston cole

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alienoryva · 5 months

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ALARIC STARK & ALYSANNE TARGARYEN (FACE CLAIM)—

"They are a non-canon couple, but they met and interacted when the queen visited Winterfell (58 AC) without the king (jaehaerys i)".

"The longer Queen Alysanne Targaryen stays at Winterfell, the warmer Lord Alaric Stark's attitude towards her becomes".

''However, he warmed to the queen, and eventually took her hunting in the wolfswood for elk and wild boar, and showed her the bones of a giant. He also allowed her to rummage as she pleased through him".

🪻Note: I read a lot of fan-fiction about them and it really got me hooked and also made them my favorite-ship. Their visual claims I chose is Queen Elizabeth Woodville (the White Queen) played by Rebecca Ferguson and a character from a Turkish historical film.

#alysanne targaryen #alaric stark #alysanne and alaric #house stark #house targaryen #asoiaf #george rr martin #game of thrones #winterfell #non canon #couple #kings landing #red keep #silverwing #house of the dragon #fire and ice #stark targaryen

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chic-beyond-the-wall · 5 months

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What Shae would wear

(Marchesa, Spring/Summer 2017)

#game of thrones #asoif/got #asoiaf #a song of ice and fire #house of the dragon #headcanon #fashion #hotd #shae #tyrion lannister #sansa stark #kings landing #red keep

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acewithapencil · 1 year

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Dany Month Day 20: Perspectives on Dany in ADWD

“‘I know that she spent her childhood in exile, impoverished, living on dreams and schemes, running from one city to the next, always fearful, never safe, friendless but for a brother who was by all accounts half-mad … a brother who sold her maidenhood to the Dothraki for the promise of an army. I know that somewhere out upon the grass her dragons hatched, and so did she. I know she is proud. How not? What else was left her but pride? I know she is strong. How not? The Dothraki despise weakness. If Daenerys had been weak, she would have perished with Viserys. I know she is fierce. Astapor, Yunkai, and Meereen are proof enough of that. She has crossed the grasslands and the red waste, survived assassins and conspiracies and fell sorceries, grieved for a brother and a husband and a son, trod the cities of the slavers to dust beneath her dainty sandaled feet.’” -ADWD, Tyrion VI

#danymonth2022 #daenerys targaryen #tyrion lannister #drogon #rhaegal #viserion #viserys iii targaryen #Rhaego #khal drogo #Dragonstone #red keep #a song of ice and fire #asoiaf #my art #fan art #this piece was exhausting but I’m pleased with it #always wanted to do something for this speech

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haaaaaaaaaaaave-you-met-ted · 7 months

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Sansa Stark in the Godswood of the Red Keep by RobotDelEspacio

#Game of Thrones #A Song of Ice and Fire #Sansa Stark #Red Keep #Godswood #Fantasy #Art #RobotDelEspacio

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ludcake · 8 months

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to ME. the red keep is like the nebbercracker house from Monster House (2006). its living and breathing and the corridors shift and the secret passages that are there arent there anymore and it slowly swallows people deeper and deeper into it. nobody ever leaves the small council they have to be forced out they have to be killed its a flytrap its a lotus island. it will get up and start eating children by becoming animate in winds of winter and deep inside it theres a heart thats actually what happened to rhaenys. the red keep is rhaenys body and visenya built it. its theirs. its what remains. its how they survived. theyre one. the iron throne is obviously some fucked up eldritch thing too,

#asoiaf #.txt #red keep #harrenhal #<- for general haunted house talks #monster house 2006 #also harrenhal used to be like that but now its a corpse #both literally and figuratively rotting #a house is a trap is a monster is a predator

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thesunwillshineonusagain757 · 1 year

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𝗔𝗧𝗣 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗣𝗦 𝗔𝗦𝗢𝗜𝗔𝗙 𝗔𝗨

𝗥𝗘𝗗 𝗞𝗘𝗘𝗣 :

The Red Keep Championships, commonly known simply as Red Keep, is the oldest tennis tournament in the world and is widely regarded as the most prestigious. It has been held at the All Crownland Club in Red Keep, King's Landing, since 1877 and is played on outdoor grass courts, with retractable roofs over the two main courts since 2019. Red keep is one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, the others being the Braavos Open, Dornish Open, and Lys Open.

Red Keep is the only major still played on grass, the traditional tennis playing surface. Also, it is the only Grand Slam that retains a night-time curfew, though matches can now continue until 11.00 pm under the lights.

The tournament traditionally takes place over two weeks in late June and early July, starting on the last Monday in June and culminating with the Mixed Singles Finals, scheduled for the Saturday and Sunday at the end of the second week.

Five major events are held each year, with additional junior and invitational competitions also taking place. In 2009, Red Keep's Centre Court was fitted with a retractable roof to lessen the loss of playing time due to rain. A roof was operational over No. 1 Court from 2019, when a number of other improvements were made, including adding cushioned seating, a table and 10 independently operable cameras per court to capture the games.

Red Keep traditions include a strict all-white dress code for competitors, and royal patronage. Strawberries and cream are traditionally consumed at the tournament. Unlike other tournaments, advertising is minimal and low key from official suppliers such as Slazenger and Rolex. The relationship with Slazenger is the world's longest-running sporting sponsorship, providing balls for the tournament since 1902.

Inspired by : Wimbledon

𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗔𝗩𝗢𝗦 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 :

The Braavos Open is a tennis tournament held annually at House of Black and White Park in Braavos, Essos. The tournament is the first of the four Grand Slam tennis events held each year, preceding the Dornish Open, Red Keep, and the Lys Open.

The Braavos Open starts in the middle of January and continues for two weeks coinciding with the Braavosi Day holiday. It features mixed singles; men's, women's, and mixed doubles; junior's championships; and wheelchair, legends, and exhibition events. Before 1988, it was played on grass courts, but since then two types of hardcourt surfaces have been used: green-coloured Rebound Ace up to 2007 and blue Plexicushion since 2008.

First held in 1905 as the Bravosi championships, the Braavos Open has grown to become one of the biggest sporting events in the Essosi part of the globe. Nicknamed "the happy slam", the Braavos Open is the highest attended Grand Slam event, with more than 902,000 people attending the 2023 tournament.

It was also the first Grand Slam tournament to feature indoor play during wet weather or extreme heat with its three primary courts, Jaqen H'ghar Arena, Yorko Terys Arena and the refurbished Valar Morghulis Arena equipped with retractable roofs.

The Braavos Open is a major contributor to the Braavosi economy; the 2020 Braavos Open injected $387.7 million into the state's economy, while over the preceding decade the Braavos Open had contributed more than $2.71 billion in economic benefits to the Braavosi economy.

Inspired by : Australian open

𝗟𝗬𝗦 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 :

The Lys Open Tennis Championships is a hardcourt tennis tournament held annually in the Free City of Essos. Since 1987, the Lys Open has been chronologically the fourth and final Grand Slam tournament of the year. The other three, in chronological order, are the Braavos Open, Dornish Open and Red Keep.

The Lys Open starts on the last Monday of August and continues for two weeks, with the middle weekend coinciding with the Lys Labor Day holiday. The tournament is one of the oldest tennis championships in the world, originally known as the Lyseni National Championship, for which mixed singles and mixed doubles were first played in August 1881.

The tournament consists of five primary championships: mixed singles, men's and women's doubles, and mixed doubles. The tournament also includes events for senior, junior, and wheelchair players. Since 1978, the tournament has been played on acrylic hardcourts at the Lys Salladhor Saan National Tennis Center in Shayala's Dance, Bazanne Town, Doreah Queens, Myrmadora Haen City.

The Lys Open is owned and organised by the Lyseni Tennis Association , a non-profit organisation, and the chairperson of the Lys Open is Moreo Dagareon. Revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, and television contracts is used to develop tennis in the Lys.

This tournament, from 1971 to 2021, employed standard tiebreakers (first to 7 points, win by 2) in every set of a singles match. Since the year of 2022, new tiebreak rules were initiated and standardised in the final set for all four Grand Slams. Thus, when a match reaches 6–all in the last possible set (the third for women and fifth for men), an extended tiebreaker (first to 10 points, win by 2) is played.

Inspired by : US Open

𝗗𝗢𝗥𝗡𝗜𝗦𝗛 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡:

The Dornish Open, also known as Nymeria of Ny Sar, is a major tennis tournament held over two weeks at the Stade Nymeria Martell in Sunspear, Dorne, beginning in late May each year. The tournament and venue are named after the Dornish aviator Nymeria of Ny Sar.

The Dornish Open is the premier clay court championship in the world and the only Grand Slam tournament currently held on this surface. It is chronologically the second of the four annual Grand Slam tournaments, occurring after the Braavos Open and before Red Keep and the Lys Open.

Until 1975, the Dornish Open was the only major tournament not played on grass. Between the seven rounds needed for a championship, the clay surface characteristics (slower pace, higher bounce), and the best-of-five-set mixed singles matches, the Dornish Open is widely regarded as the most physically demanding tennis tournament in the world.

The Dornish Open has been the only major played on clay courts since 1978, when the Lys Open changed to hard courts. Clay courts slow down the ball and produce a high bounce when compared with grass courts or hard courts. For this reason, clay courts take away some of the advantages of big servers and serve-and-volleyers, which makes it hard for these types of players to dominate on the surface.

On the other hand, players whose games are more suited to jumpier surfaces. In the Open Era, almost only male players who have won both the Dornish Open and Red Keep. Composition of the courts : 1. Red brick dust, 2. Crushed white limestone, 3. Clinker (coal residue), 4. Crushed gravel, 5. Drain rock.

Inspired by : French Open

𝗪𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗙𝗘𝗟𝗟 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡:

The Winterfell Open (also known as the Winterfell Masters, and currently branded as the Winterfell Open presented by Itaú for sponsorship reasons) is a tennis tournament held at Hard Rock Stadium in Winterfell Gardens, Winterfell. It is part of the mixed ATP Tour Masters 1000 circuit, and part of the women's WTA 1000 circuit. The Winterfell Open is usually held between March and April.

The tournament had historically been held at the Tennis Center at Cregan Park in Winterfell town, Winterfell from 1987 through 2018, before moving to northern Gardens for 2019. Behind the Karhold Masters, it is the second event of the "Blizzard Double", a series of two consecutive hard court tournaments in the North at the beginning of the season. They are the only tournaments besides majors where main draw play extends beyond eight days.

Beside the four Major championships, the Winterfell Open is one of a small number of events on the ATP tour where the main singles draw (for the mixed, the men and the women) involves more than 64 players, and where main draw play extends beyond one week. 96 men and 96 women compete in the singles competition, and 32 teams compete in each of the doubles competitions with the event lasting 12 days.

In 2006, the tournament became the first event in the North to use Hawk-Eye to allow players to challenge close line calls. Players were allowed three challenges per set, with an additional challenge allowed for tiebreaks. The first challenge was made by Jon Connignton against Dacey Mormont in the first round.

Inspired by : Miami Open

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗩𝗔𝗟𝗘 𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦 :

The Vale Masters, also known as the The Arryn Open and The Sky-blue falcon Open is an annual tennis tournament usually held in early- and mid-March at the Arryn Falcon Tennis Garden in Flanco Peak, in the Vale, in Westeros. The owner is Jon Arryn, executive chairman and co-founder of Oracle. The tournament director is former world No. 2 player Robin Arryn. The tournament is a Masters 1000 event on the mixed tour, men's tour and is a WTA 1000 event on the women's tour.

Between 1974 and 1976 it was a non-tour event and between 1977 and 1989 it was held as part of the Grand Prix Tennis Tour. The event is one of two tour events , other than the Majors, in which main draw play extends beyond eight days. The women's main draw and men's main draw usually starts on Wednesday and the mixed starts on Thursday. Both finals are held on Sunday of the following week. Both singles main draws include 96 players in a 128-player grid, with the 32 seeded players getting a bye (a free pass) to the second round.

The tournament is played on hardcourt and is the best-attended tennis tournament outside the four Grand Slam tournaments, it is often called the "fifth Grand Slam". It has the second-largest permanent tennis stadium in the world, behind Dragonstone's Aegon Targaryen Stadium.

Inspired by : Indian Wells Masters

𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛 𝗚𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗡 𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦:

The High Garden Masters is an annual tennis tournament for male professional players held in Loras-Cap-Tyrell, High Garden, France, a commune that borders on Dorne. The event is part of the ATP Tour Masters 1000 on the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Tour. The tournament is played on clay courts and is held every year in the April–May period.

The High Garden tennis championship was first held in 1897. It became an "Open" event in 1969. From 1970 through 1973 and from 1976 through 1989 it was a major tournament of the Grand Prix Tour. In 1973 the tournament was part of the Rothmans Spring Mediterranean Circuit. From 1974 through 1977 the tournament was part of the World Championship Tennis (WCT) circuit. In 1990 it became an ATP Championship Series Single Week tennis event.

Beginning in 2009, High garden became the only Masters 1000 tournament not to have a mandatory player commitment. Most of the top players still elect to play the event despite this status.Lyanna won the title eight consecutive times between 2005 and 2012, making him the only player to win eight consecutive titles at the same tournament. In 2017, contesting his 11th final against Oberyn Martell, she won the title for an Open Era record 10th time. The following year, Lyanna improved this record to 11 wins in a final against .

Inspired by : Monte-Carlo Masters

𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗙𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡:

The Starfall Open, currently sponsored by Torentine Starfall and known as the Torentine Starfall Open, is a joint mixed, men's and women's professional tennis tournament, held in Starfall, during early May.

The clay-court event is classified as an ATP Tour Masters 1000 on the ATP Tour and a WTA 1000 event on the WTA Tour. In the past, it has also been known as the Starfall Masters. The tournament is traditionally played on a red clay surface. The event was played on blue courts in the 2012 tournament edition, with the ATP deciding against blue thereafter.

It was proposed and implemented in 2012 a new colour of blue clay for all the courts' surfaces, motivating that it would supposedly be better visually, especially for viewers on television (analogous to some hard court surface events migrating to blue from various previous colour schemes).

Some speculated that the adaptation of blue colour was a nod to the titular sponsor of the tournament, the Dornish insurance giant Torentine Starfall. This controversial change was subsequently granted and began to be used in the 2012 edition of the tournament. In 2009 one of the outer tennis courts had already been made of the new surface for the players to test it. The Open's director had assured that aside from the colour, the surface kept the same properties as the traditional red clay.

Inspired by : Madrid Open

𝗞𝗔𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗗 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 :

The Karhold Open is a mixed tennis tournament held in Karhold, located along a forested river in the eastern half of the north, south of the Bay of Seals, in the North. Held since 1993, the event is played on four outdoor grass courts and is a part of the ATP Tour 500 series on the ATP Tour schedule.

Between 1993 and 2018 it was sponsored by Karlon Stark. It was sponsored by Karstark & Co from 2019 to 2021. In December 2021, a change of primary sponsor and name was announced. For the years 2022 and 2023, the tournament will be known as the Karhold Open.

The Karhold Open is held at the same time as the Kings of North Club Championships, and the two are seen as the primary warm-up tournaments for the Winterfell Grand Slam tournament, also on grass courts, which begins towards the end of June. The event was upgraded in 2015 from a 250 series to a 500 series tournament.

The Centre Court (the Karlon Stark, Stadion) has 12,300 seats and a retractable roof which can be closed in 88 seconds so that tennis matches can continue with a closed roof when it begins to rain. The stadium is heated and also used for other sport events (handball, basketball, volleyball and boxing) and concerts.

Inspired by : Halle Open

𝗠𝗘𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗡 𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦:

The Meereen Masters, originally called the Essosi International Championships, is a tennis tournament held in the Free City, Essos. It is one of the most important clay tennis tournaments in the world with the mixed competition being an ATP Tour Masters 1000 event on the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) tour, and the women's competition being a WTA 1000 event on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) tour.

The two events were combined in 2011. The tournament is played on clay courts, currently during the second week of May. The event is also known as the "Meereen Masters" for male edition, as well as the sponsored name "Koshlōgor hen Mīrīn". Lyanna Stark has won the mixed singles title a record ten times.

The Meereenese tennis championship was first held in 1930 in centre Meereen at the Tennis Club and was initiated by Queen Daenerys Jelmāzmo. The singles events at the tournament were won by Belaquo Bonebreaker and Barsena Blackhair. The championships were held in centre Meereen until 1934.

The Meereen Open became "open" to professional players in 1969. Between 1972 and 1989 it was a premier tournament of the Grand Prix Tennis Tour and was part of the Grand Prix Super Series top tier events. In 1990 it became an ATP Championship Series Single Week tournament, which included the nine most prestigious tournaments of the preceding Grand Prix tennis circuit. It has remained part of this category of events until today, that has changed names several times since, to be now known as the ATP Tour Masters 1000 events.

Inspired by : Rome Masters

𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗟𝗬 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡:

The Casterly Open, also known as the Casterly Open presented by Lannister for sponsorship reasons, is a tennis event on the ATP Tour and former WTA International Tournaments event. The tournament is played on outdoor clay courts at the Jockey Club Casterly in Casterly, Westernlands. It is the only ATP Tour 500 event in Westernland and the only ATP Tour event in Westeros.

The tournament takes place at the end of February and organises a mixed, men's and women's event. The tournament takes place under the patronage of the Casterly Rock foundation In 2001 the ATP upgraded the tournament from an ATP 250 level to a more prestigious ATP 500 level tournament.

On the WTA Tour, it alternates yearly between a WTA 1000 level tournament and a WTA 500 level tournament. Prior to the 1990s there was an annual Casterly Tennis Championship played at the Top of the Rock, in the Casterly Rock Palace Club.

The Casterly Tennis Championships was the third tournament in pro tennis history to award equal prize money for both men and women, before the mixed era.

Inspired by : Dubai Open and Rio Open

𝗔𝗧𝗣 𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟𝗦:

The ATP Finals (until 2008 Tennis Masters Cup and until 2017 ATP World Tour Finals) is a tennis tournament played annually at the end of the season involving the eight highest ranked players in the ATP world tennis rankings. A doubles version is also played, involving the top 8 doubles players of the season.

Unlike the other events of the mixed and men's season, the ATP Finals is not a direct elimination tournament. The eight tennis players/doubles are split into two groups of four, and each tennis player/doubles player plays against the other three in their group. Then, the two players/doubles with the best results from each group move on to the semi-finals, and the winners of the semi-finals meet in the final to determine the champion.

The ATP Finals is considered the fifth most prestigious event on the mixed, men's and women's circuit, after the four Grand Slam tournaments. It is usually held in Riverrun but it has been also known to be held in Harrenhal.

In the 2009 season the name of the tournament changed from Tennis Masters Cup to ATP World Tour Finals and in 2018, such name changed to just ATP Finals. Tennis players Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark are the tournament's biggest singles champions, both with 6 wins.

Inspired by : ATP Finals

𝗬𝗜𝗧𝗜 𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦 :

The Yiti Masters ( also known as Yiti Rolex Masters for sponsorship reasons) is a professional mixed tennis tournament played on outdoor hard courts, and held annually in early October at the Amethyst Empress Forest Sports City Arena in the Han District of YIti. The tournament is chronologically the eighth out of nine ATP Tour Masters 1000 events on the ATP Tour, it was the first to be played in eastern Essos.

Inspired by : Shanghai Masters

𝗬𝗨𝗡𝗞𝗔𝗜 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 :

The mixed Yunkai Open (sponsored by Skistar) is an ATP Tour 250 tennis tournament on the ATP Tour held in Center Yunkai, Yunkai in July, it's a challenger-level tournament. It is played on outdoor clay courts, something to note is that the winners of the Yunkai open will be crowned king or queen of the city and will be taken to the top of the biggest pyramid in the city and enjoy a day of being " royalty", after their win.

Inspired by : Swedish Open

𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗜𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 :

The Lannisport Open (sponsored since 2022 by Hugo Boss and called BOSS Open) is an ATP Tour 250 series professional tennis tournament on the ATP Tour. Between 1970 and 1989, the Lannisport Open was a Grand Prix tennis circuit event. From 1990 to 1999, the Lannisport Open was an ATP Championship Series tournament. The Championship Series name was changed to ATP International Series Gold in 2000, and the Lannisport Open was a part of this series from 2000–2001 and 2003–2008. In 2002, the Lannisport Open was briefly demoted for one year to ATP International Series status, which was renamed to the ATP Tour 250 in 2009, and it has retained the classification ever since.

Inspired by : Stuttgart Open

𝗡𝗔𝗔𝗧𝗛𝗜 𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗢𝗦 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡:

The Naath Essos Open (formerly Naath Open Tennis Championships) is an annual tennis tournament for professional players held in Naath, Isle of Butterflies and part of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Tour. Before 2021, it is a mixed event. The tournament is played on outdoor clay courts at the tennis centre Missandei Starheart in the Naarthi quarter. For much of its history, the tournament was contested in May, as a precursor to the Dornish Open on the professional tennis calendar. Starting with the 2009 tournament, it has been held in July instead.

Inspired by : Hamburg European Open

𝗣𝗬𝗞𝗘 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡 :

The Pyke Open (currently sponsored by Erste Bank and called the Erste Bank Open) is a professional tennis tournament played on indoor hard courts. Originally an event of the Grand Prix tennis circuit (1974–1989), it is currently part of the ATP World Tour 500 series of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) World Tour. It has been held annually at the Balon Greyjoy Club, in Pyke, Iron Islands, since 1974.

Iron Island's most successful tennis player, Victarion Greyjoy, never won the Pyke Open, but was a runner-up on three occasions (1988, 1993, 1995), and a semi-finalist on another four occasions (1987, 1989, 1990, 1994). Four Iron Island players have won the singles title at the Pyke Open: Vickon Greyjoy in 1988, Goren Greyjoy in 2009, Dagon Codd in 2010, and Caoimhe Stonetree in 2019.

Inspired by : Vienna Open

𝗗𝗥𝗔𝗚𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗡𝗘 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡:

The DragonStone Championships is a professional tennis tournament on the ATP Tour. Classified as an ATP 250 tournament, the event is annually held at the outdoor grass courts of Dragonstone Country Club in Sant Aegon, Dragonstone, Crowlands in June, a week prior to the Red Keep Championships.

Inspired by : Mallorca Open

𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗛𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗖:

The Harrenhal Classic: (currently sponsored by Rothesay Pensions) is a 250-level previously women only but now mixed tennis tournament on the mixed Tour held at the Harrenhal Priory Club in Harrenhal, Crownlads, Westeros. Held at this location since 1982, the tournament is played on outdoor grass courts. It is seen as a warm up tournament for the Red Keep.

Inspired by : Birmingham Classic

𝗗𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗧 𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗡:

The Dreadfort Open was originally known as the Dreadfort Championships or Dreadfort Lawn Tennis Tournament (1887–1967), is a tennis tournament for mixed, men's and women's held in Dreadfort, North, played on outdoor grass courts at the Dreadfort Tennis Centre. After being discontinued in 2008, it was downgraded in 2011 to ATP Mixed Challenger Tour and ITF Women's Circuit. briefly re-established as an ATP World Tour 250 event on the men's tour in 2015 and 2016, before returning to a Challenger event in 2017, and since 2015 it has been an international event on the women's tour. The tournament is held in June as a "warm-up" for the Red Keep.

Inspired by : Nottingham Open

@aemontargaryen-bloodraven

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redrabbitkreations · 3 months

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#game of thrones #danaerys targaryen #red keep #winking #spoiler alert #dragon fire #ai art #ai artist #ai generated #ai illustration #ai art generation #ai art gallery #ai image #ai artwork #stable diffusion

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jedimaesteryoda · 4 months

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One by one Arya had chased them down and snatched them up and brought them proudly to Syrio Forel … all but this one, this one-eared black devil of a tomcat. "That's the real king of this castle right there," one of the gold cloaks had told her. "Older than sin and twice as mean. One time, the king was feasting the queen's father, and that black bastard hopped up on the table and snatched a roast quail right out of Lord Tywin's fingers. Robert laughed so hard he like to burst. You stay away from that one, child." -AGOT, Arya III But they were all dead now, even Arya, everyone but her half-brother, Jon. Some nights she heard talk of him, in the taverns and brothels of the Ragman's Harbor. The Black Bastard of the Wall, one man had called him. -ADWD, The Blind Girl

In the Middle Ages, the quail was associated with spring and to catch or have one was to bring good luck and happiness. However, if you lost the quail, it was a bad omen.

Tywin lost the quail to a black cat, in superstition a symbol of bad luck, who was possibly Rhaenys's kitten named for the dragon ridden by the founder of the Targaryen dynasty.

It can be seen as a sign that House Lannister's ambitions will not live to see spring. Their hold on the Iron Throne will not last as another described as "the Black Bastard" who is "the real king of this castle" like the cat will come to take it from them.

It also noted that it is the Stark girl who managed to capture the cat that took the quail, or House Stark effectively has a lock on the royal candidate when Ned took Jon in.

#asoiaf #a song of ice and fire #house targaryen #rhaenys targaryen #red keep #iron throne #house lannister #tywin lannister #lannisters #a game of thrones #arya stark #arya

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lexyleblancc · 1 year

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Sea dragon {Aegon Targaryen}

Hi all! I’ve never written about this fandom before so this is new for me! It went longer than i expected so part 2 will be out in a little while now :) Let me know what you think!

Warnings: Nothing really? If I missed anything let me know! I mean, she’s marrying her cousin so red flag in itself.

summary: The daughter of Daemon Targaryen is to be married to her cousin prince Aegon. Her free spirit needs to be tamed, and the king hopes that this will ease his issue with his first born son as well. word count: 4.8k

“Naejot se jēdar, Ayniss!” - To the sky

The daughter of Daemon Targaryen was something that will forever loom over her, heir to the Rogue Prince, and in return something rogue herself. A princess, that of self interest and brood for wars that have yet to come knocking on their doorstep. The young girl was one spitfire like her father, much to the dismay of the King who tried so hard to indulge his niece in the ways of being a lady. The Targaryen blood runs thick through her veins, she was all too stubborn to listen. She did not wish to be prayed upon by Lords and suitors who wished nothing more than to have Targaryen blood run through their bloodline. The dominant genes of silver hair and violet eyes that shone like amethysts in the sunlight. Her father, although aloof with most, would always hold his daughter to the highest regard. He never wished to marry, and yet he did because that was his birthright. His daughter longed for the feeling of the sea, and the scales of her dragons back. She was known through the realms as a sea dragon, one that never wished to marry. Any and all suitors that set Daemon requests for an audience were denied, he sent men running away in hopes his daughter would make the decision all on her own.

“You must marry (Y/N)! If not to a lord, many of which have left the regard of your father and come to me, then to your blood!” Viserys exclaimed through the room. Yet she never faltered at her uncle's yelling, she stood tall with her hands held in front of her.

“I do not wish to marry!” She yelled back, biting back all the words she wished so desperately she could say instead.

“You wish to be what? A warrior? Women do not wager in wars!”

“This one does! I may have the dragon's blood in my veins, you may be my King but you are not my father!” She knew this would become more of an issue as time went on, she was now of the age of 6 and 10. She should have been married off years ago, promised to someone when she was born. She should already have borne a child or two by this time. Yet her father has let her run free through the realms, wager in petty battles and lead her own men into them. She had been named a great warrior in these years, and yet her King, her own uncle, would refuse to acknowledge it. “I will not be married off to some man who offers this house the highest bid. I am not a prize so easily won! I have led men through the battles of the Stepstones, I am the reason men get to go home to their loving wives and awaiting children! I have fought your battles for you and yet you give me no regard!”

“(Y/N) that is enough.” Daemon finally said, pushing himself from the wall he used for support and walked to his daughter. “I have let you live your life in any way you have seen fit. Gave you men to lead and open skies to fly upon. My daughter, it is time you uphold your duties.” She allowed her father to cradle her face between his hands, bringing their foreheads to meet as she let his words settle around her.

“You want me to marry, father?” (Y/N) questioned, searching her fathers eyes for the denial of these accusations.

“I do not wish for you to be unhappy, my little sea dragon, but it is no longer in my hands.” Daemon whispered. “Your King has decreed it.” He spoke with regret. He had wished that he could avoid this, allow his daughter to wed as she saw fit. The girl’s step mother, Princess Rhaenyra was one of the same. She didn’t wish to marry, not for the politics of such a thing and much less for the riches of some lord.

“Who?” her voice was small, as she looked from her father to her uncle. “Who is this man you wish to force me to marry Uncle? I assume I have no choice in the matter any more.”

“My son, Aegon. Helena took to Aemond before we could betroth her to Aegon.” Viserys told her. “The wedding will be held in three weeks time, a grand royal wedding for my first born son and my only niece.” She found her fathers eyes, hoping he would say something but he remained silent. Silent during a time she so desperately needed him to defend her. She wished he would speak on this act, protest her marriage and let her live her life with her dragon. She wished to adventure, and see the world while she was still young. She did not wish to remain in the stonewalls of the Keep, her dragon kept in a pit far out of her reach.

“Very well, Uncle.” She spoke quietly, turning out of her fathers grasp and leaving the chambers of her Uncle. She did not wish to stay in the insufferable room any longer, she needed to get out of this castle, away from the prying eyes that begged for her to let slip as to what had just happened in that room. She darted through the halls, cursing herself for the hair she possessed, if it were darker maybe the maids would pay her no mind as she ran through the halls. Outside in the courtyard, knights and handmaids alike shot her way but the princess took it to no mind. “I will need a horse.” She said to one of the stable boys, who nodded and left quickly to fetch her a horse.

“Princess, you must not leave without an escort.” One of the Kings knights said, approaching her from the side.

“I do not require an escort to go see my own dragon.” The princess spoke, thanking the stable boy who provided her with a white horse for her to use. “Tell my father not to worry himself with the likes of me. I will return by sundown.” She told the knights, before leading the horse out of the courtyard, dirt kicked up behind them as her horse galloped away. The dragonpit wasn’t far from the Keep, although it was far enough for her liking. With her dragon, Ayniss, was one of silver and blue scales. When the sun caught it in certain lights, her glimmering scales looked like those of the ocean waves. The sea that she would always long for. Her father used to joke, saying she had the soul of a pirate and all those that came before her. Her heart belonged to the waters and the smell of sea salt clung to her hair like the finest of perfumes.

The dragon keepers were quick to fetch Ayniss for princess (Y/N). Although muttering about how they wished she had provided them with more warning. They could have had the dragon outside already and waiting for departure. “I apologize for the lack of warning my friends, if anyone should come looking for me… tell them I have taken to the sky.” She climbed to her saddle, made for her to sit comfortably and with ease. “Naejot se jēdar, Ayniss!” The girl called, which was all the dragon needed to take flight. Her reins in hand, (Y/N) took a deep breath inhaling the crisp air around her.

She truly could allow herself to feel at peace in the sky. The wind was sharp against her face, but her blood was warm. It didn’t matter how far she flew, it never would. Ayniss was young, and (Y/N) was much too stubborn to admit defeat. She was and always will be a dragonrider by birthright, and although most Targaryen’s undeniably cared for their dragons, they used them as a tool of power. (Y/N) and Ayniss were one of the same, the bond was strong and the blood thick. The girl did very little to aid the dragon into obeying her, it was more than respect between dragon and dragonrider. (Y/N) loved Ayniss, like she was her own family.

Ayniss flew above the ocean, wings hitting the water in order to splash it up which made (Y/N) let out a laugh. They flew together until (Y/N)’s eyes landed on a cliff on the coast, covered in lush green grass. She called to Ayniss, guiding her to land on top of the cliff. When the dragon landed, (Y/N) jumped off the dragon’s back and instead settled into her side. They would be safe here, from wandering eyes and eavesdropping ears.

“I am to marry.” She sighed, her head resting against the scales of her dragon’s side. “I do not wish for it, but I have run out of time my friend.” (Y/N) didn’t know how many riders spoke to their dragon like a friend. How many of them treated them like a friend, but it brought her peace of mind. She was able to work through her issues easier this way, and was able to voice her concerns to a creature that would always be on her side.

She stayed there for a few hours more, and when her feet landed back on the soil of King’s landing, her father was there waiting for her. “I went looking for you.” Daemon said, holding back his grin as he spoke. He was sent out by Viserys to find her, but the prince knew that it would be no easy task. There were corners of these lands anyone could hide away in, never to be found.

“I told the knights I would be back.” She told her father, taking his arm as they trekked back to their horses. “I assume we are to have dinner with the prince and my other cousins.”

“Try not to look so upset by this daughter. Just because you have to marry him doesn’t mean-”

“I am entering into a loveless marriage, father. I will carry his children as it is my duty. I will grow old with a man I do not love, I will never know freedom again. I will never go anywhere without someone by my side, watching me. The life of a quiet wife, a woman who holds no power because women are only meant to keep a man’s bed warm.” Daemon sighed, grabbing (Y/N)’s arm to stop her from walking.

“Aegon is a drunk, he is lazy. Not ideally someone I would have matched to my first born heir, but it is one I have little say in. After the wedding I will return to Dragonstone and will see you only for meetings, dinners, whenever the King wishes. I do not wish to leave you here (Y/N), but we waited too long and it is out of my hands. The king can not have someone in his line unwed, unclaimed. Let alone two of you.” Her father explained. (Y/N) only nodded her head, climbing onto her horse without a word. Daemon sighed, doing the same as his daughter so they could make their way back to the Red Keep.

When they had arrived, handmaids were quick to take the girl away from her father, leading her to her chambers for a quick wash. “The king requested you be bathed and given new dressings for your dinner tonight, princess.” She could only nod her head as the ladies let her scrub herself clean quickly, her hair being kept up and away from the hot water. She was dressed in a royal red, one of the true colours of the house of Targaryen. Escorted to the dinning hall, she was pleased to find her step brothers and half sisters sat around the table, her step-mother present as well.

“Princess.” (Y/N) greeted, pushing past everyone and into the waiting embrace of her step-mother princess Rhaenyra.

“Oh sweet girl, look at you.” Rhaenyra hummed, pressing a kiss to the girl’s forehead before admiring the dress she adorned.

“You look beautiful sister!” Lucerys said with a grin, which made (Y/N) smile and bring him into her arms, kissing the top of his head. He was not her brother by blood, neither was Jacaerys but (Y/N) had accepted them as such when they most needed her.

“Thank you, dear brother.” She grinned, taking the boy into her arms and guiding him to the table that sat in the middle of the room. Her uncle, and his wife Alicent sat side by side. Her cousins, Aemond, Helena and Aegon all stood talking to one another in quiet whispers. “Would you like to sit with me tonight, dear brother?” (Y/N) asked Lucerys, to which the boy was happy to agree.

Everyone had settled around the table, Aegon being ushered to sit beside his betrothed. (Y/N), upon her better judgment allowed her eyes to wander from the younger boy beside her, and to the man on her other side. His eyes were tired, and he smelt strongly of wine. Despite this, she could not deny him being handsome. At the age of 8 and 10, Aegon should have been married off years ago and yet he remained unpromised all these years.

“Let us all settle, we are here to celebrate the unity between two of our very own tonight!” Viserys called through the room, making everyone fall silent. All eyes were on Aegon and (Y/N), which made the girl fidget in her seat as the silver haired man beside her took a long sip of his wine.

“Yes, thank you Uncle.” (Y/N) spoke, bowing her head with a tight lipped smile. The girl had no idea what Aegon thought of the marriage that was to take place, but she could only assume he was just as disappointed as herself. At least she wasn’t being shipped off to an unknown land, she at least was able to stay close to home.

The night carried on, everyone talked amongst themselves throughout the night while (Y/N) couldn’t stop herself from picking at her plate of food. She didn’t have an appetite tonight, being pawned off probably had something to do with that. She didn’t notice Alicent urging her son to speak to her, begging her son not to run off yet another lady. Aegon grunted, downing his wine and standing from his seat. “A toast,” Aegon said, grabbing a pitcher and filling his glass once again. “To my betrothed (Y/N), I look forward to spending these upcoming years with you.” The prince said, forcing a smile while he locked eyes with the girl. Everyone raised their glasses, coursing with congratulations, while (Y/N) offered a small smile.

“I look forward to it, my prince.” She said softly.

The next few weeks (Y/N) and Aegon would be forced to go on walks through the gardens, take meals together, and even have their lessons intertwined with one another. The Queen was making various attempts to put her son’s endless affairs to an end. He was to be married in a week now, and although a small friendship had formed through their forced proximity, there was yet to be any actions made to acknowledge their engagement. The pair had known each other briefly in childhood, but (Y/N) was never in one place for long. Whether she was off with her father, fighting in the Stepstones, or on a ship to explore the wonders of the world.

“Princess.” The voice greeted her while she stood in the gardens. A simple rose was toyed between her fingers before she turned to face who had called her. A small smile in greeting as she bowed her head slightly in greeting.

“My prince.” Aegon offered his arm to her as they began their walk through the grounds of the Red Keep. More often than not, the pair were found to be talking quietly amongst themselves, (Y/N) telling him about her adventures through the lands fondly. Today was different though, and although the prince didn’t mind the peace and quiet, it was out of the ordinary for her to be quiet. She wasn’t known to be timid, or to hold her tongue when something displeased her.

“You’re unnervingly quiet today cousin.” Aegon commented, looking down to the girl in confusion. (Y/N) looked up, offering a small smile before a sigh slipped past her lips.

“Would you like to go riding?” (Y/N) asked him, the pair had never gone riding together. The King wanted them kept on the grounds until their wedding, but the girl was getting antsy from being on the ground for so long. She longed for the feeling of the wind against her skin, and the small of the sea. She no longer smelt of it, and maybe that was by design, but she hated it.

Aegon’s eyes looked around them, they were always being watched but it seemed everyone around them was distracted enough. “Let’s go.” Aegon found someone to ride ahead and prepare the dragon keepers for their arrival. While the carriage was prepared for the two to take to the dragon pit. When they were safe in the enclosure, (Y/N) rested her back against the wall and sighed.

“Do you ever wish the dragon pit was closer to the Red Keep?” She asked quietly, which made Aegon look at her curiously.

“I don’t think the people of Kings landing would appreciate it much.” He told her quietly, which only caused the girl to cross her arms over her chest.

“I don’t like being so far from Ayniss.” She told him, her eyes peering out the small cracks of the carriage. There was little room to look out at the world passing them by, but she supposed that was the whole point. It kept the royals separate from the commoners and prying eyes. “I also don’t like not being able to see where we are.”

“It’s so they don’t see who’s in here.” Aegon reminded her. “Some people who ride in carriages aren’t well liked, it’s for your safety.”

“I can properly look after myself.” She told him. “I don’t need a false window to do it for me. The people like me well enough as it is.” She informed, and it was true. The people adored the young dragon rider, and she liked them as well. Her entire family wouldn’t be a royal worth remembering if it wasn’t for the people who loved them so.

“It isn’t you they don’t like.” Aegon said with a chuckle. “You’re marrying the most hated of my siblings.” He reminded her. (Y/N) would be arrogant if she turned a blind eye to Aegon’s nature, she was well aware of his extracurriculars. The prince was a playboy through and through, he took whatever maids he deemed worthy in his drunken haze, would wander to the street of silk during the night to find solitude in sex workers who never questioned why one of their princes were paying for their time. The women in those pillow houses weren’t paid to ask questions, but to perform a service for the royal.

“Yes well, I haven’t heard of you scaring off any more maids as of late.” she commented when the carriage came to a halt and the door was opened for them. (Y/N) took the arm of the waiting knight as she made her way down the carriage steps and into the fresh air around them. She couldn’t help but grin when her eyes landed on the familiar silver scales.

“I have never seen Ayniss in person, she is more beautiful than the stories say.” Aegon told the smaller girl, a gleam in his eyes as he watched her eyes dance with excitement.

“So is Sunfyre… he truly is gorgeous.” The stories of Sunfyre the golden dragon were known even in distant lands. The dragon was said to have scales that shimmered as bright as mounds of gold. Fortunately for the dragon riders, the two dragons seemed to not mind the other’s company. It normally took a lot of time and patience for dragons to get acquainted with each other, but if there was already a bond between (Y/N) and Aegon, it may have made it easier. “Are you ready?” The girl asked, smiling like a small child would, before running up to greet her companion.

“I have missed you, my friend.” She cooed, running her hand along the warm scales of the silver dragon, before stepping up onto the small platform and climbing onto her saddle. Aegon followed her actions, climbing onto Sunfyre. When they were both settled into their handmade saddles, (Y/N) looked over to the silver haired man and smiled. “Naejot se jēdar, Ayniss!” The girl called in high valyrian, before the dragon let out a loud roar and took to the sky. She looked over her shoulder to find Sunfyre behind her, Aegon didn’t know where (Y/N) was going, but he followed behind her anyways.

“Try to keep up!” (Y/N) called over the wind, making Aegon shake his head as he rolled his eyes. She directed Ayniss to the cliff she had discovered two weeks prior, somewhere the two could be away from the prying eyes of the Keep. The flight was short, but the smell of the sea was strong. The joy she felt, her eyes closed as the wind wisped past her ears loudly. The air was growing cold as the seasons started to change, but that wasn’t going to bother the spirit of (Y/N).

When the two dragons landed on the clearing of the cliff, (Y/N) was quick to allow her feet to meet the ground, Aegon copying her actions. “If you wanted to get me alone princess, you could have just asked.” Aegon teased which made the girl roll her eyes.

“You forget yourself, my prince.” (Y/N) quipped back. “I needed to get away from the Keep for a moment. All anyone talks about anymore is the wedding.” She sighed, sitting on the ledge of the cliff. Her legs dangled over the side, the sound of waves crashing underneath her enough to calm her nerves.

“I know you never wished to marry.” Aegon sighed, joining her to sit. “Trust me when I say, I truly do not intend to hold you from the life you desire.”

“I just - I always thought I would marry for love. Not that the love for family doesn’t run deep… I long for adventure Aegon and I will not find that here.”

“We can call it off.” Aegon said without thinking. He knew they truly could never call off the engagement, it was put in place by the King himself, his own father. Maybe it was a final attempt to lay to rest Aegon’s ways, and (Y/N)’s loud spirit. Whatever the reason, somewhere along the way the pair had found a middle ground, a way to coexist together despite the differences they truly held.

“Your father would have our heads for treason, kin or not.” (Y/N) laughed. “I do not mind the fact that we have to marry you know… after this short period of time you have truly become my closest friend.” Aegon never had any friends. He had his brother and sister, but Aemond and himself never got along for longer than a few minutes in passing. Helena always spoke in riddles, dragon dreams clouding her mind between prophecy and reality so it was hard to talk to her sometimes. A friend, a foreign word to him. Aegon liked the sound of it though, his first friend, his only friend (Y/N) Targaryen.

“We could have… rules set in place? A guideline for what we expect from this marriage so no one has any expectations not met.” Aegon suggested, to which the girl nodded in agreement. Neither of them knew how long they stayed on the cliff side away from everyone. Instead they discussed their new arrangements, talked about where they would like to see their marriage go one day. The smallest things they wished for the other to uphold. “Everything you have said is very fair princess, yet you fail to mention my drinking or my personal endeavors.” Aegon reminded her, he figured she would have something to say about the way he had lived his life up until her.

“I do not wish to control you, Aegon. You’re drinking is your own business until it affects me. When that time comes we will discuss it. The woman you choose to bed is your own business. Although I ask you to keep that away from me and our chambers, I do not wish to have every woman in the kingdom in my space… I can not ask you to forget your ways just that you uphold our marriage respectfully.”

The week had gone by quickly after their day-long escape. When they had landed back in King’s landing the King had been furious with the two, despite the joy Daemon had found in the situation. He had lectured his daughter about running off with a man before her wedding, being alone with him in such a way was frowned upon by the people. Daemon couldn’t care less about who she decided to be alone with, he knew his daughter better than another soul. If she had bed someone before she was married off, Daemon would be the first to know about it. Just as she was the first to know about any marriage he had after her mother. Her mother's passing had caused the pair to grow close, a trust filled bond growing in its place. They confided in one another, Daemon would not marry another if his daughter wished it. Yet, (Y/N) approved of every woman that sparked Daemon’s interest and she had earned herself many siblings through her father’s marriage to his past and current wives.

The first day of the wedding ceremony was upon her. (Y/N) had seen very little of Aegon since they had left the Red Keep that day. The Queen figured if they spent less time around each other, there would be less cause for another random disappearance. They saw each other for dinners the week leading up until the wedding, then ushered away from each other once again. Due to this, dinner had grown longer between the two. So the friends could discuss their days, the troubles they were having and any concerns they felt obligated to share. The wedding ceremonies were set to take place across several days, as was custom for royal weddings.

First would be the welcoming feast, greeting lords and ladies from various lands across the realm. Then would be two days for the tourneys that (Y/N) despised so much. Then the pair would indulge in a royal ball before holding the wedding ceremony in front of the realm, where they would finally be mad husband and wife.

The days would be long, but she found comfort in knowing it wouldn’t be just her that had to endure this torture. She had wondered how Aegon felt through all of this, they wouldn’t be allowed a moment together to talk over the next few days until they were finally married. They would eat with every lord and lady in the great hall, would sit in the booth with their family while watching the tournaments take place. They would dance through the ball, surrounded by hundreds of people and their houses, before finally being made a spectacle while they were married in front of those same hundreds of people.

The knock on her chamber doors made the girl sigh, her maids had finally left her alone for a moment, and now they were back. “Come!” She called, sitting on the couch in front of the fireplace. This would be one of the last few nights in her own Chambers, before she and Aegon were moved into a shared royal apartment in the castle, where they would be expected to raise a family. The door opened, a pair of feet making their way to where she sat. The girl looked over her shoulder lazily, before her eyes landed on the man himself.

“Aegon!” His presence was almost comforting. She rushed to stand, moving around the couch and into his arms. “You shouldn’t be here. If anyone sees you-”

“I had to see you first. These next few days will be busy princess.” his hand brushed along her cheek as he smiled. “I was doing some thinking this past week-”

“Uh oh.”

“Oh shush.” Aegon couldn’t help the laugh that slipped past his lips. “I want this to be real (Y/N).”

“How real can we get besides marrying Aegon?” (Y/N) teased, stepping away from him, but remaining in his arms nonetheless.

“I mean, I want to do this right. You said it yourself, we are friends, but I have grown to care for you. I do not wish to have any maid or pillow girl, just you dear princess.”

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